From Plateau to Rivers: History of emergency rule in Nigeria since 1999
President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing the protracted political crisis that has been rocking the oil-rich state since September 2023.
In a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara, his deputy, and all elected members of the state House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
To oversee the state during the emergency rule, the President appointed a former Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.), as the administrator
The 1999 Constitution, under Section 305, empowers the President to declare a state of emergency under specific conditions.
The proclamation must be published in the government gazette and transmitted to the National Assembly for approval.
A two-thirds majority of the National Assembly is required to validate the declaration, ensuring a system of checks and balances to prevent abuse of executive powers.
Since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, Tinubu’s action marks the fourth time a state of emergency has been declared by a sitting President.
Here are other notable instances:
1. Plateau State (2004)
In May 2004, President Olusegun Obasanjo declared a state of emergency in Plateau State following a surge in ethno-religious violence that led to widespread killings and destruction. The governor and state assembly were suspended, and Major General Chris Alli (retd.) was appointed administrator to restore order.
2. Ekiti State (2006)
A leadership crisis in Ekiti State prompted Obasanjo to impose emergency rule in October 2006.
The crisis stemmed from the controversial impeachment of Governor Ayo Fayose, which plunged the state into chaos. Brigadier General Adetunji Olurin (retd.) was appointed administrator until the situation stabilized.
3. Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States (2013)
Amid escalating Boko Haram insurgency, President Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states on May 14, 2013.
Unlike previous instances, governors and state assemblies were not suspended; instead, the federal government deployed more troops and imposed curfews to curb insurgent activities.
